Parents and education leaders from the Catholic, government and independent sectors have participated in the inaugural Parents in Education Week in South Australia. The event included a series of free workshops for parents at the Flinders University Building, Victoria Square, Adelaide. Topics such as ‘Learning Early’ through to ‘Life with or without University’ focussed on parent engagement across the journey of children’s learning and development from birth to senior secondary and post school pathways. An expo was held each day including a display by Catholic Education SA along with the Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities
A highlight of the week was a forum including input from Barbara Barker, Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY).
Dr Fox spoke about her research in the area of parent engagement and the establishment of the parental engagement network.
She highlighted the difference between engagement and involvement, stating that involvement is largely about working bees and committees but engagement takes things a step further and includes engagement in a child’s learning at school and home.
She said that research shows that positive things that parents can do include:
• engaging with a child’s teacher
• discussing social and political issues at home
• discussing books, TV and films at home
• discussing schooling
• eating meals together.
She said that all of these things are associated with better student outcomes.
The forum concluded with an interactive panel with 5 panellists:
• Hon Susan Close MP, Minister for Education and Child Development
• Barbara Barker, Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY)
• Mr Tony Harrison, Chief Executive, Department for Education and Child Development
• Mr Kelvin Grivell, Principal, Encounter Lutheran College
• Ms Ann Bliss, Executive Director, Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities
Intergenerational playgroups are truly something special — an experience that enriches the lives of both the young and the older members of our community. These playgroups are more than just a space for children to play; they are a vital platform for different generations to come together, share wisdom, and build meaningful relationships.
